Corneal power values for use with keratoprostheses and intraocular lenses

Abstract

Purpose: To specify a keratoprosthesis (KPro) power value for use with an intraocular lens (IOL).

Methods: Raytracing software was used to determine the imaging properties of both the natural cornea and conceptual KPro designs, and IOL power calculation methods were reviewed. Traditional calculations use 'thick lens' models for the overall eye, while also using 'thin lens' approximations for the cornea and IOL. The power of the natural cornea acts approximately at the apex, although this is unlikely to be the case for a KPro. The IOL location is determined using an empirical adjustment that is calculated from clinical results for natural eyes.

Results: The use of a KPro has a similar optical effect to corneal refractive surgery, where the cornea no longer matches the original eye. A modification of the 'double-K' calculation method can be used by specifying the KPro effective power at the original corneal apex, but still estimating the postoperative IOL location using the original corneal power. The KPro power is measured by assembling the KPro with fluid and a window to simulate the way it is used, recording the best focus power at room temperature with a 3 mm diameter aperture, rescaling to the in situ power at 35°C using refractive index changes, and then rescaling again to the power expected relative to the original corneal apex. When expressed as a K value, a keratometer refractive index of 1.332 is proposed. If necessary, clinical results may be used later to make empirical adjustments to the calculation method.

Conclusions: A KPro power can be specified relative to the expected location of the original corneal apex using a keratometer index of 1.332. A double-K calculation can then be used to determine the correct KPro and IOL power values for a pseudophakic eye.

Keywords: IOL power calculation; corneal power; keratometer; keratoprosthesis.